Touching act of kindness: A generous tip that changed a waitress’s life
Lauren’s story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for small acts of kindness to change the world.
When the Tennessee Waffle House server read what was printed on the customer’s receipt, she was horrified.
Around 4 a.m. Lauren Ball, a resident of Kingsport, Tennessee, was finishing her shift when a customer walked into the Waffle House.
Ball told WJHL, “I was ready to go home; I didn’t even want to serve him, but I was the only waitress working.”
However, the 21-year-old had no idea what was going to happen.
Ball was in financial trouble; she had just paid for her two-year-old son’s birthday party and was about to take a trip to Florida with her father.
It was Wednesday, and Ball estimated that if things went well, she could make around $30 or even as much as $60.
After a pleasant conversation with the two guests she was serving, the waitress went outside to light a cigarette. She was not convinced when one of the men followed her out and claimed that his companion would leave her a substantial tip. When she went back inside, she was amazed to find that he hadn’t lied.
The client tipped Ball $600, according to the Kingsport Times-News. She was in awe.
Ball commented, “It took my breath away.” It made me feel good but in a good way.
Once word of the tip got around the restaurant, other employees were curious to confirm its veracity. A waiter stopped a man who had left a tip outside and asked him about his honesty. He said he responded.
As the men left, Ball rushed out, sobbing heavily as he hugged and thanked the tipper for the very large tip. She had never met him before that evening.
She cried and told him that he was an angel and that he would never understand how much he meant to her.
Ball asked why the man would go to such lengths for a complete stranger. The single mother continued: “And he replied that I just like doing things for beautiful people.
Ball said she will never forget the man’s act of kindness. He expresses his desire to one day be in a position to help another stranger and pay it forward.
Readers commented on the story on the Facebook page.
One reader said: “That was such a nice gesture from a man to tip her so much. Sounds like she’s a hard-working mother and I know she appreciated it.”
Another user commented: “This woman deserved it.” Wow, what a great guy. This single mother works to provide for her children. People should take notes from her.
Lauren’s story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for small acts of kindness to change the world. She inspires others to find opportunities to brighten someone else’s day, even in the simplest of ways.
As the world continues to face challenges, especially in the midst of a pandemic, Lauren’s story offers a poignant reminder of the power of compassion and the importance of lifting each other up in times of need. Acts of kindness not only bring joy to the recipients but also promote a sense of unity and solidarity in the face of adversity.
In closing, the heartwarming story of Lauren Ball and the generous tip she received at a Waffle House in Tennessee demonstrates the transformative power of kindness. In the midst of her own financial problems, a chance encounter with a stranger brings unexpected relief and restores her faith in humanity. The act of compassion and generosity not only touched Lauren’s heart but also resonated with readers around the world. This moving story serves as a lasting reminder of the profound impact that simple acts of kindness can have on individuals and communities. As we go through challenging times, let’s remember the power of compassion and strive to be a source of light and positivity for others, creating a ripple effect of kindness that can brighten even the darkest of days.